Remember that many employers accept applications from graduates with any degree subject, so don't restrict your thinking to the jobs listed here.

Work experience

Undertaking relevant work experience can greatly boost your chances of success in finding a job. Look for an industrial designer in your area and ask if you can complete a placement with them during your university studies.

Look out for product or industrial design competitions that you could enter, or exhibitions that you could take part in. Anything that can add to your portfolio will be helpful. You will need to be able to demonstrate the breadth of your work and any specialist interests.

It is also important to keep up to date with the industry so read design journals to find out about new technology.

Typical employers

Employment can be found in both the private and public sector. Private sector work could include a range of manufactured products for the domestic and industrial market. Public sector work could include designing interactive facilities, such as public information points and equipment used by services such as the police, fire and ambulance.

Employers include:

industrial and domestic product manufacturers;

car manufacturers;

point-of-sale designers;

retailers.

Self-employment, or employment within a design-based consultancy, is also possible. For information on setting up a business, see self-employment.

Skills for your CV

A degree in product design or industrial design develops technical knowledge and creative design skills. It also equips you with other skills that are valued by many employers. You will be able to demonstrate:

presentation skills;

communication skills;

the ability to work to deadlines;

commercial and entrepreneurial skills;

problem-solving skills;

the ability to use your initiative and work independently;

teamworking skills;

visual and spatial awareness;

general and specialist IT skills, such as computer-aided design (CAD).

Further study

It is possible to take a Masters degree in industrial or product design. Specialist courses, such as product design innovation and development, are also available. Another option is to complete postgraduate study to specialise in a connected area, such as interior, graphic or exhibition design.

Professional qualifications are available with relevant industry bodies or you could choose to study for a business-related qualification like an MBA (Masters of Business Administration) or an MSc in project management.